On the Edge of Infinity: A Biography of Michael D. O'Brien

by Clemens Cavallin

This book tells the story of Michael O'Brien, one of the most popular Catholic novelists and painters of our times. It covers his life from his childhood in the Canadian Arctic to the crucial decision in 1976 to devote himself wholly to Christian sacred arts, followed by his inspiration to write fiction and his best-selling apocalyptic novel, Father Elijah. The story then continues to the present with explorations of O'Brien's other works.

O'Brien's life is one of struggle against all odds to reestablish Christian culture in the materialist void created by the modern Western world. It is a timely reminder of hope in trials and sufferings, of endurance during marginalization and poverty. This is the first biography of O'Brien, and it also provides an introduction to his novels, paintings, and essays.

The author, Clemens Cavallin, was granted unrestricted access to Michael O'Brien's personal archive, including his diary from the late 1970s until the present day. By revealing sides of O'Brien's interior creative life--including mystical experiences, spiritual battles, and illuminations—he has painted a portrait of a contemporary visual and literary artist whose inspiration arises from an intense fusion of imagination and active faith.

Genres: Biography, Christian, Catholic

300 pages, Paperback

Published March 21, 2019

Reviews

[Anita Yoder · Rating 5 out of 5]

A simple story about an artist who lives with strong faith and imagination. O'Brien's own contemplative, purposeful lifestyle bleeds clearly through to the characters in his novels. It felt sacred to be given this view into the story of his family and marriage, his severe life challenges, and his tenacity as an artist. I mean, a man who lives in the North and is surprised by the sun when he visits Mexico and Croatia has suffered just with the weather, if nothing else. But the O'Briens paid dearly for their enduring vision of living the way of the cross for themselves and their children. It wasn't only being the stereotypical starving artist, but also being a prophetic voice that saw value in a simple, subcultural life for the sake of Christ and the church.
It was also good to understand why O'Brien uses dreams and other mystical experiences in his novels. They are part of his own story. While I usually think dreams can be a quick, easy way for a novelist to make his character change, I see now that these are deeply significant for the author, and not a cheap literary tool.

[Ruth Ess · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a truly engrossing biography. I particularly appreciated how it situated Mr. O'Brien's life within the wider cultural history of Canada, the world, and the Catholic Church. It was a fascinating read.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

A tremendous insight into one of the most interesting Catholic artists of our time.
Beyond being a biography, this is a glimpse into a dedicated man's faith in Jesus Christ. His love for him is inspiring and his pursuit of him is something to be grasped. Worth the read. I have so much to think about.

[Martyn J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful insight into a man of God, an author, painter and father who worked tirelessly with the minimal of fame and fortune.

[Robert · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is an incredible biography of an artist, a writer and a man and his family who has and still is living life against the grain. Because we have had an opportunity to meet the O’Briens it makes the book even more alive. It is the universal story of maintaining faith in our weakness. Well worth the read.

[Ryan Storch · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a story about a life lived in the heart of Christ. So beautiful and inspiring. His life will remain in my heart as I continue on in my own journey of life. One of the large takeaways for me was the reality that his creativity flowed even amidst his gargantuan financial struggle. It’s hard for me to do anything expect focus on the fix of the struggle when I’m in that place, let alone create something as beautiful and striking as an 800 page novel about a fictional saint. Beauty will save the world.

[Kathleene M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspiring

If you like the writings and paintings of Michael D O'Brien, you owe it to yourself to read this excellent biography explaining the foundation and experience from which the books and art grew.

[Leila Chandler · Rating 4 out of 5]

I learned a lot about the history of Catholic revival in Canada. Had no idea that O'Brien was involved in the founding of OLSW.

[Isaac · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent background of the life of one of my favorite authors. If you enjoy Michael O'Brien's books and/or art, it's a must read.

[Yvonne Ardoin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unbelievable picture of a truly living saint; his life, his faith, his experiences explain his deep, spiritual, psychological insights into the characters that he has created. The author, Cavallin, has captured this holy man and his life in a "can't put it done" style. It is the story of a brilliant, intelligent, holy man captured in a brilliant, intelligent, respectful manners.

[Michael Creavey · Rating 5 out of 5]

An outstanding biography of a truly remarkable man! Michael D. O'Brien is a modern day Jeremiah, crying out to a blind and deaf world that is racing toward a terrible cliff. Through his novels and his art, he tirelessly seeks to draw our culture's attention away from the countless distractions, addictions, and idols we have grown obsessed with toward the higher and deeper things. The only thing I would recommend more than this fantastic book is the work of O'Brien himself!